Why are the advertisements on the web and commercials stating Turbo tax is free

[GiseleD]

Many taxpayers have simple returns that will qualify for the Free program. However, some taxpayers have returns that require forms and schedules not covered by the Free version. Click here to see the pricing tiers and to learn what is covered in each package. 

[Opus 17 · Accepted solution]

Turbotax is free to start. Final cost is determined by the complexity of your return.

If your income is less than $36,000, you can use the IRS FreeFile version of Turbotax, which is completely free and includes complicated forms not normally included in the regular free program.  

The FreeFile Turbotax web site is separate from regular Turbotax and you will need a separate account and to start over from scratch. https://freefile.intuit.com

[lions1986]

the Intuit TurboTax commercials taunting FREE....FREE...are so misleading and I believe borderline fraudulent.  Let's see how free it was for me this year.  Program $40.  Delaware state program $39.99.  eFile Delaware and New Jersey $39.98.  Virginia state program $44.99.  eFile Virgina 24.99.  If i did the match correctly this is $189.95.  hmmm FREE?  I have used Turbo tax for years but 2019 will be my last time.  Not so much for the costs as it is for their false adverting.    I recently stopped using Quicken when they went to an annual subscription.   Looks like my days of using Intuit products are over. 

[LeonardS]

TurboTax Free Guarantee: $0 Federal + $0 State + $0 To File offer is available for simple tax returns with TurboTax Free Edition. A simple tax return is Form 1040 only, without any additional schedules. Situations covered include:

• W-2 income
• Limited interest and dividend income reported on a 1099-INT or 1099-DIV
• Claiming the standard deduction
• Earned Income Tax Credit (EIC)
• Child tax credits

[lions1986]

Then why doesn’t the commercials state this fact. I have seen many commercials all saying Free Free. and never heard what you responded   The commercials need to clearly state what is free. And what you will pay if you need other forms. Free is so misleading.  Good buy Turbo Tax.  Good buy Quicken.  Good buy Intuit. 

[LeonardS]

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